Brand Guide - Updated January 2026
Ford Lease Return Guide
Returning a leased Ford? Ford Credit inspects vehicles for excess wear and may charge for damage beyond normal use. Learn what to expect, how charges are calculated, and how to dispute unfair fees.
Quick Answer
Ford uses the Credit Card Test for lease-end wear assessment. Damage smaller than a credit card (about 2 inches) typically qualifies as normal wear. The disposition fee is $395, often waived for loyalty. Our users successfully dispute an average of $300 in charges.
Returning a Ford lease?
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Common Ford Lease-End Charges
These are typical charges Ford lessees see at lease return. Charges marked with a green checkmark may be contestable using the Credit Card Test or other defenses.
Potentially Contestable Charges
| Charge Item | Avg. Cost |
|---|---|
Body dents Credit Card Test applies | $100-300 |
Paint scratches Surface scratches often waived | $100-300 |
Wheel damage Minor curb rash may be normal | $125-225/wheel |
Interior wear Normal wear accepted | $75-200 |
Windshield damage Small chips often pass | $50-150 |
Fixed Fees (Generally Non-Negotiable)
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
Missing equipment Varies by item | $75-250 |
Disposition fee Waived for loyalty | $395 |
Excess mileage Moderate rate | $0.20/mile |
Dispute Tip
For any charge marked as contestable, apply the Credit Card Test: if the damage is smaller than a standard credit card (about 2 inches), it typically qualifies as normal wear under industry standards and federal Regulation M guidelines.
Ford Wear Guide Thresholds
Ford Credit follows industry-standard wear guidelines. Damage that falls within these thresholds is typically considered normal wear and should not be charged.
The Credit Card Test
Industry standard: If damage (scratch, dent, scuff) is smaller than a credit card (approximately 2 inches), it typically qualifies as normal wear. This is your primary defense against unfair charges.
| Damage Type | Normal Wear Threshold | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Scratches | 2 inches or less | Normal |
| Dents | 2 inches diameter maximum | Normal |
| Tire tread | 2/32" minimum | Normal |
| Interior | Normal wear patterns | Normal |
| Glass | Chips under 1 inch | Normal |
| Wheels | Cosmetic marks only | Normal |
What Counts as Normal Wear
- - Scratches under 2 inches (credit card size)
- - Minor dents without paint damage
- - Light interior wear from normal use
- - Small windshield chips not affecting visibility
Likely Chargeable Damage
- - Deep scratches with paint damage
- - Large dents (over 2 inches)
- - Interior tears, burns, or stains
- - Cracked windshield or major glass damage
Legal Authority: Under Federal Regulation M (12 CFR 1013.4), lessors must disclose standards for determining excess wear. These standards must be reasonable and applied consistently.Ford's wear guide represents their interpretation of reasonable standards.
Ford Inspection Process
Ford Credit uses third-party inspectors or dealer inspections. Pre-inspections can be scheduled through your local Ford dealer approximately 30 days before lease maturity.
Tips for Ford Lease Return
- Ford Credit has reasonable lease-end policies for a volume brand
- Pre-inspection available at Ford dealerships 30+ days before return
- Ford Protect wear coverage available if purchased at lease signing
- Consider Ford loyalty programs for disposition fee waiver
- F-150 and truck leases may have different wear expectations - check your agreement
Dispute Unfair Ford Charges
Our tool analyzes your Ford Credit inspection report against industry standards and generates a formal dispute letter citing Regulation M and the Credit Card Test.
Dispute Letter
Cites Regulation M & OEM guides
Credit Card Test Analysis
Industry-standard defense
Documented Savings
Average $1,200 disputed
$29 - Avg Ford dispute: $525 - Potential 18x return
Ford Credit Contact
Phone
1-800-727-7000Website
Ford Credit PortalMailing Address (for disputes)
Ford Credit, P.O. Box 650574, Dallas, TX 75265-0574
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Ford charge for excess wear at lease end?
Ford Credit charges are typically $100-300 per damage item - reasonable for the industry. Ford follows the Credit Card Test standard: damage under 2 inches is generally considered normal wear.
What is Ford's disposition fee?
Ford charges a $395 disposition fee at lease end. This fee is often waived if you lease or purchase another Ford through Ford Credit. Check for current loyalty promotions.
What is Ford's excess mileage rate?
Ford typically charges $0.20 per excess mile - a moderate rate compared to luxury brands ($0.25+) and economy brands ($0.15). Calculate your exposure and compare to buyout options.
Are Ford truck lease returns different?
Truck leases (F-150, Rangers) may have different wear expectations given their intended use. Bed liner damage, towing-related wear, and off-road use may be evaluated differently. Review your specific lease terms.
Can I dispute Ford lease-end charges?
Yes. Document vehicle condition with photos, reference the Credit Card Test, and contact Ford Credit customer service. Ford has a reasonable reputation for working with customers on borderline charges.
Does Ford offer wear and tear protection?
Yes, Ford Protect Wear Care is available at lease signing and covers excess wear and tear charges. If you purchased this coverage, review your paperwork for coverage limits and claim procedures.
Compare Other Brands
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Based on Federal Regulation M (12 CFR 1013) and Ford Credit wear guidelines